07/02/2024
In an era where the remarkable lives of women often went uncelebrated, (1893-1982), stood as a beacon of courage, compassion, and unyielding resolve. Her autobiography, "A Fringe of Blue" (Athos Press, 2024) -press the icon to see the full cover!- firstly published in 1968, is not merely a recounting of her adventures and accomplishments but a testament to a life dedicated to serving others.
Athos Press, NY, honours the historic autobiography of one of the most significant and decorated women of the 20th century and by republishing this extraordinary work, roughly edited and delicately annotated, and aims to shed new light on Joice’s unconquerable spirit and the profound impact she had on the world around her and offer contemporary readers a deeper understanding of the historical, cultural, and personal contexts of Joice’s narrative.
By exploring her interactions with the monastic communities of , her humanitarian initiatives, and the challenges she faced, we gain a richer appreciation of her contributions and the indomitable spirit that defined her life.
Joice was an extraordinary Australian humanitarian, author, and one of the most decorated women of the 20th century.
Her life was marked by a relentless commitment to alleviating suffering and a fearless pursuit of adventure. From her early years in Queensland, to her global humanitarian efforts during and after both World Wars, Joice’s life was a testament to courage, compassion, and resilience.
Joice and her husband, Sydney Loch, arrived at the Byzantine Tower in 1928; perched on the edge of the Aegean Sea in Ouranoupolis, it became their home and the epicenter of their humanitarian activities. Joice played an instrumental role in improving the lives of approximately 150,000 local Greek and refugees. Her efforts ranged from establishing schools and healthcare services to reviving traditional crafts and industries, thus fostering economic independence and cultural preservation.
This story is one of unwavering dedication to humanity, a beacon of hope and inspiration. It was a privilege and a blessing to revive it and share its adventure. May this edition serve as a tribute to her enduring legacy and a source of inspiration for generations to come.
https://www.athospress.com/real-stories--non-fiction.html
This is an updated edition of the original autobiography (1968) by J.N.L which is researched, refined, and annotated by George G. Spanos who honored the writers style and saved her inspiring real-life story.
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"Memoir-writers in the calm of evening must borrow their brilliance from either matter or manner, according to their life-interests. Mrs. NanKivell Loch is one of those rarities with the best in both kinds... This is a revealing page of history narrated with a beauty and realism that form the single crown of Mrs. Loch's duality."
-The Times Literary Supplement
"Joice NanKivell Loch has been an unabashed do-gooder for the major part of her life, but don't expect anything smug or pious in her spirited and extraordinarily interesting autobiography... The book is crowded with lively characters
and is full of good stories."
-The Daily Telegraph
"The lives of certain of the tough breed of Anglo- Saxon women who have spent their days in good works abroad make you wonder how the human race could ever have survived without them."
-The Evening Standard
"Most agreeably written."
-The Sunday Times
"From childhood in the Australian outback to a Byzantine tower near Mount Athos, bracketing relief work in Poland, Russia, Ireland, Greece, Palestine, Turkey in the aftermath of two great and three civil wars, her thronging memories are enough to furnish a score of ordinary autobiographies."
-The Observer
